H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, on March 19, 2024 received representatives of the National Social Protection Council (NSPC) led by H.E. Dr. Chan Narith, Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Economy and Finance and Secretary-General of the NSPC, to discuss avenues for collaboration in advancing the development of the informal economy.

During the meeting, H.E. Narith shared insights into the NSPC's institutional structure, priority agenda and achievements in fostering social protection such as the implementation of the health equity fund, National Social Security Fund and cash transfer programs for poor and vulnerable households.

Recognizing NSPC as a key actor in the implementation of the National Strategy for Developing the Informal Economy, Minister Vanndy highlighted the six key measures charged by the NSPC in the strategy’s overall action plan. He urged the development of a detailed action plan and reiterated the ongoing formulation of a policy framework and concrete measures tailored to the needs of the target groups.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration with line ministries-institutions in promoting the benefits of formalization to diverse segments of the informal economy.

This meeting is a concerted effort towards addressing the challenges faced by informal workers in order to produce tangible outcomes that will positively impact the livelihoods of informal workers and contribute to inclusive socio-economic development of Cambodia.